What should come in the place of blank number (1)?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2, i.e. collide.
The sentence says ideologies “____, mutate, and sometimes dissolve,” which clearly suggests dynamic interaction, conflict, and change. The verb must match this intensity and movement. “Collide” fits perfectly because it shows direct clash and interaction between ideologies, which can lead to mutation and even dissolution.
Option Analysis:
A. stabilize – means to become steady or fixed, which contradicts “mutate” and “dissolve” (both indicate change), so it does not fit
B. collide – means to clash or come into conflict; this naturally leads to change, mutation, and breakdown, so it fits perfectly with the sequence
C. gestate – means to develop slowly over time; it suggests growth, not conflict or breakdown, so it doesn’t align with “mutate and dissolve”
D. circulate – means to move around; it is too neutral and does not convey the strong interaction or transformation implied in the sentence
Hence, the correct answer is collide.